Misses Size 8 Slopers you may copy and use

I am releasing my Misses size 8 slopers into the commons. I grant permission to anyone who wants to use them commercially or personally. You can copy, download and size in your graphics program. My reason for making these available is to help others get a head start on their patternmaking and dressmaking business orContinue reading “Misses Size 8 Slopers you may copy and use”

New Dress “Alice”: Progress Photos 2-6-21

Introduction In this posting I share progress photos of a new dress developed through a combo of flat patternmaking and draping. The photos featured are of the half-toile to test the fit. Combination Technique: Draping and flat patternmaking 95% of this toile was made using a flat pattern. I used the Misses Size 8 sloperContinue reading “New Dress “Alice”: Progress Photos 2-6-21″

Marfy “Evergreen” Edition

The Marfy pattern books are published by Marfy Studio Stilistico in Ferrara, Italy. Each edition comes with a free, multi-sized pattern. The illustrations are detailed enough so that dressmakers and patternmakers can get ideas for their own projects. Along with the exquisite illustrations, there are fabric recommendations. The color combinations are sometimes striking, other timesContinue reading “Marfy “Evergreen” Edition”

Pat Perkins Everyday Dress, circa 1950s – Analysis

Introduction Further consideration of my plans for my next project is needed. The sketch of the chambray shirtwaist dress expresses my idea. However, the details I had envisioned must be changed. I had planned on having in-seam buttonholes. I have been wanting to try this kind of buttonhole for a long time. I want toContinue reading “Pat Perkins Everyday Dress, circa 1950s – Analysis”

Standard Misses 8 and my Altered Customized Sloper

Introduction The basic fitting shell for the Misses Size 8 was draped. A toile was made twice each time refining the fit. When the basic Size 8 was turned into a sloper I then went on to customize it for myself. Why not draft a custom made pattern? I have been drafting patterns to myContinue reading “Standard Misses 8 and my Altered Customized Sloper”

Preliminary Sketch for New Project-Chambray Shirtwaist Dress

Introduction I always start a project with a sketch. It acts as a roadmap. Once a fitting toile is made, the style may take on further changes. It depends on the resulting drape and other details I may want to add. Right now, I am considering this shirtwaist dress with additional details. The most practicalContinue reading “Preliminary Sketch for New Project-Chambray Shirtwaist Dress”

How to draft a Half Circle Skirt Pattern

Preparation See “How to Take Measurements” if you are using your personal measurements. You can also use the Standard Misses Size measurements provided here. You can see the finished half circle skirt here. Pattern Diagram Measurements Needed Size Misses 4 measurements are used as an example. Waist=23″ Front Skirt Length=24″ (40″-16″=24″) Calculate One Fourth ofContinue reading “How to draft a Half Circle Skirt Pattern”

How to draft a pattern for a gored skirt

Six Gore Skirt Drafting Instructions Before drafting this skirt pattern please see How to Take Measurements.  The measurements used in this pattern are for a Misses Size 4.  They are used to provide an example.  You will substitute your own measurements to draft your custom pattern. The Flattering Qualities of a Gored Skirt Gored skirtsContinue reading “How to draft a pattern for a gored skirt”

How to Take Measurements

When taking measurements, hold the tape measure with one hand inside, against the body. This will allow a slight amount of ease. The fitting sloper is very close to the body in order to achieve the best assessment of the fit. It also shows if the measurements are accurate or need adjusting. Style ease isContinue reading “How to Take Measurements”

Spring!: My recreation of a Vintage Blouse

Introduction I purchased an early 1960s blouse by the Tropicana company during the furlough from my job due to COVID-19 this past Spring. The blouse provided a fun challenge to me during those days at home. I decided to renew my skills in draping and recreate as much as possible the blouse. As happens, theContinue reading “Spring!: My recreation of a Vintage Blouse”